In the alchemist Fatima represents happiness and love to Santiago. From the moment they laid eyes on each other there was love in the air. "One is loved because one is loved. No reason is needed for loving. (p121)"

"The wind began to blow again. It was the levanter, the wind that came from Africa. It didn't bring with it the smell of the desert, nor the threat of Moorish invasion. Instead, it brought the scent of a perfume he knew ell, and the touch of a kiss---a kiss that came from far away, slowly, slowly, until it rested on his lips. The boy smiled. It was the first time she had done that. "I'm coming, Fatima," he said. " page(167)

Symbolism

This symbolism enhances the story because it introduces another aspect of life that we see happen on a daily basis. Santiago travels around learning about the Soul of the World and at the oasis he learns about love. Fatima, a woman of the desert, teaches Santiago that love mustn't interfere with his Personal Legend. However she says that she will blow kisses to him through the wind, waiting for him to come back. This takes place at the end of the epilogue when Santiago feels Fatima's kiss calling him back to her after his Personal Legend was fulfilled. Fatima symbolizes love and somewhat symbolizes the distractions present in life.